Emmanuel Nlewedum
The Federal and State governments have been urged to invest in the creative industry and tourism development.
Gallary Manager, Delaroke Arts Gallary, Confidence Blankson at a one day Salon Exhibition in Port Harcourt said investing in creative arts and the tourism sector will go a long way in reducing crime and insecurity in the country stressing that it will provide employment and enhance creativity among the youths.
Showcasing over 200 creatives art and fashion works, Blankson said the visual exhibition organized in partnership with Moet Hennessy Nigeria, aims to inspire creativity among the youths and residents, adding that the show will afford Rivers and Nigerian citizens the opportunity to experience genuine culture and arts.
She disclosed that “Delaroke is a contemplary art gallery, we do any form of visual art, we hold exhibitions, put up art pieces for sale. Delaroke is committed to partner with the Nigeria’s art and creative industry and the Rivers State government for recovery and growth of the tourism sector”.
She said, “Our vision is to create a thriving arts space and bring life to the art scene in Port Harcourt and Nigeria at large through exhibitions like this. We know there are lots of art lovers in Port Harcourt but for want of where do they get original and quality (art) pieces/work from, this is where we come in. Dalaroke bridge the gap between art lovers, the collectors and the artists”.
“Our major goal is to be the Art enigma in the South East, South South and Nigeria by extension. We want to create a major art market, contribute to the growing creative industry and boost tourism here. We have a space, I mean we have alot to do.
“Rivers State used to have some kind of attractions centres, but slowly it started dying and people are asking questions. But I commend the current administration for what it’s doing at the zoo, the amusement park is there, but for creative art, they need to partner with the likes of Dalaroke Arts Gallary”.
She solicited for partnership from the state and federal government, private individuals and Tourist organizations.
“We are currently working to partner with not only the government of Rivers State, but with both private individuals, different tourism based organizations, NGOs and other art lovers out there”.
Area Manager, South-East, Moet Hennessy, Nigeria, Catherine Equere said; “This is really fresh in Port Harcourt. Art is something I would love to see grow because we know how unemployment rate is in the country. Coming from the gallery and walking around and seeing a lot of art works from youths and other artists is really impressive. The people especially the youths are putting their talents, energy and the works of their hands into use to make a living.
“To get the youths off the street, the government and parents need to start encouraging the creative art industry. The government should invest more in human capital and craft development. It’s not just enough to go to school and graduate, we have alot of people with files on the street looking for job.
“The government should create workshops, invest in art centres where people can go and learn or develop their skills. They should also revive the tourism
“For the youths, everybody has a talent, they should think of what they can do with their God given talent it will make the most of their living. They should embrace creative art.
